How have mass shootings by year changed over time?
Quick Answer:
Mass shootings in the U.S. have risen sharply since 2010, reaching 10–12 incidents annually between 2017 and 2019 and again in 2022–2023. Totals have since fallen: 2 in 2024, 7 in 2025, and 3 so far in 2026 (through August 2).
U.S. Mass Shootings by Year: A Growing Concern
Looking at mass shootings by year, it's clear that incidents have increased over time. In the 1980s and 1990s, most years saw one to five incidents. However, in 2010, the numbers began rising sharply.
- In 2012, there were 7 mass shootings, marking a major jump from previous years.
- The highest numbers occurred in 2017 (11 mass shootings), and in 2018, 2022, and 2023 (12 mass shootings each).
- Some years, such as 2020 and 2024, recorded only two incidents, but overall, the number of U.S. mass shootings has risen significantly over the past two decades.
The State with the Most Mass Shootings
TOP 5 States with the Most Mass Shootings (1982-2026)
www.consumershield.com*2026 data is available through August 2
Source: Mother Jones and the Center for Investigative Reporting
When analyzing which state has the most mass shootings, California leads with 27 incidents, the highest in the country. Other states with high numbers include:
- Texas – 15 incidents
- Florida – 13 incidents
- Colorado – 8 incidents
- Washington – 7 incidents
This data suggests that while U.S. mass shootings occur nationwide, some states experience them more frequently than others.
Why Do Some States Have More Mass Shootings?
The state with the most mass shootings, California, also has the largest population in the country, which may contribute to its higher number of incidents. However, other factors could play a role, including gun laws, urban density, and crime rates.
Similarly, Texas and Florida—two of the largest states—also report high numbers of mass shootings. While these states have different laws and policies, their large populations and major urban centers may contribute to the higher numbers.
What These Numbers Tell Us
The increase in U.S. mass shootings by year shows that gun violence is a growing crisis. While some years have seen fewer incidents, the overall trend has risen sharply since 2010.
By tracking U.S. mass shootings, we can better understand where and when these incidents happen. This information is crucial in developing safety strategies, supporting stronger policies, and finding solutions to prevent future tragedies.
While California has the most mass shootings, the issue affects communities across the country. Addressing the causes of gun violence, improving public safety, and increasing awareness are all essential steps in reducing mass shootings in the U.S.
